Xaver Schlager
NFO
Center Midfielder
Ball-Winning Midfielder
Sep 28, 1997 (29)
Left
5'9"
168 lb
Provides midfield stability in defeat
Schlager generated one shot (zero on goal) and two chances created in Sunday's 1-0 defeat to Arsenal.
Analysis: Schlager recorded one off-target shot, seven tackles (four won) and one interception across the full 90 minutes in Sunday's 1-0 defeat to Arsenal. He partnered Nicolas Dominguez in Forest's midfield and contributed to a disciplined defensive setup that restricted Arsenal's creativity throughout the first half and much of the second, with the visitors unable to produce a shot on target until the 80th minute. Schlager helped Forest remain competitive against the reigning champions, although Noni Madueke's late deflected strike ultimately left the hosts without a point.
Comes off bench, impresses vs Leeds
Schlager did not start Saturday's season opener against Leeds because he was not yet physically ready, but he came on late and left a positive impression despite the 1-0 defeat, according to coach Oliver Glasner, per Jake Netting. "Some players had two, three or six weeks of pre-season, and I've got a lot of information from the training sessions and the games. So I didn't want to start them both because we can't afford to potentially substitute them later due to physical reasons."
Analysis: Schlager's exclusion from the starting lineup surprised some given his performances had appeared strong enough to warrant a spot, though manager Oliver Glasner cited form as the deciding factor in leaving him out initially. He's expected to pair with Ibrahim Sangare in midfield once fully up to speed, with his encouraging cameo off the bench strengthening his case for a role in the coming weeks, especially with Tuesday's Carabao Cup rematch against Leeds offering another opportunity to build momentum.
Posts two interceptions in Spain bout
Schlager generated two interceptions and had nine passes in 45 minutes in Thursday's 3-0 defeat versus Spain.
Analysis: Schlager was fairly energetic and had a few offensive forays in the first half, but they didn't translate to the stat sheet, and he was replaced at the interval. He logged at least one interception in every fixture, totaling seven and posting one assist, six tackles (three won) and six clearances in four appearances during the tournament.
Limited impact in draw
Schlager had one shot (zero on goal) in Saturday's 3-3 draw against Algeria. He also had one clearance and one interception.
Analysis: Schlager didn't have a big impact on either side of the ball Saturday and was subbed off at halftime. He should remain in the XI for the Round of 32 against Spain since he has excellent rapport with Nicolas Seiwald, but his fantasy appeal has been minimal in a holding, defensive-minded role.
Starts on Monday
Schlager generated one cross (zero accurate) and two tackles in Monday's 2-0 defeat to Argentina.
Analysis: Schlager covered nearly 10 kilometers and was heavily involved in Austria's structure at both ends. He completed 93 percent of his passes and contributed defensively with two tackles and an interception, but struggled in duels, winning only two of 11 ground duels. He was unable to consistently gain control against Argentina's midfield rotations resulting in a hardworking but an uneventful performance.
Assist before substitution
Schlager logged one assist on a chance created, four tackles (one won), three interceptions and three clearances across 59 minutes during Austria's 3-1 win Tuesday against Jordan.
Analysis: Schlager's assist is a case of right place and time, as all he did for his goal contribution was make an easy pass to goalscorer Romano Schmid. The only Austrian to clear multiple balls, intercept several passes and win at least one tackle is Schlager, whose offensive production lacked, especially after his assist. This was capped off by a crucial mistake, as one of his turnovers resulted in Jordan's goal, scored by Ali Olwan from an excellent counter-attack. To shake up the Austrian team, its manager Ralf Rangnick replaced Schlager, meaning he departed on a low note despite his assist.
Back in top form
Schlager has been named in Austria's World Cup squad after a season disrupted by injuries at RB Leipzig, returning to full fitness in time for the tournament.
Analysis: Schlager made 26 Bundesliga appearances across the campaign after missing large portions of the last two seasons through injury, contributing three goals and one assist in what was a disrupted but ultimately encouraging return to form. The midfielder brings an elite pressing game, technical quality and the leadership of a player who has been one of the most important players in Austrian football for several years, and his presence alongside Nicolas Seiwald gives coach Rangnick a double pivot of exceptional quality and familiarity. Schlager heads into the World Cup motivated to make the most of what is his first tournament appearance after injury heartbreak ruled him out of previous competitions.
Nets rare goal
Schlager scored a goal with his lone shot while crossing once inaccurately during Saturday's 2-1 win over St. Pauli.
Analysis: Schlager opened the scoring just ahead of halftime sending Leipzig into the break up a goal. The goal was the first since December for the midfielder as he's combined for two shots, five chances created and seven tackles over his last three starts.
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